Pour italian dressing and these 3 ingredients over chicken breasts in slow cooker for a comforting meal people always return to

This 4-ingredient creamy Italian chicken is one of those weeknight recipes that feels almost too easy for how comforting and flavorful it turns out. It leans on a very American pantry classic: bottled Italian dressing. While this isn’t a traditional Italian dish by any stretch, it’s inspired by Italian-American flavors—herbs, garlic, and tangy vinegar—tempered with the richness of cream cheese. The slow cooker does all the work, gently braising boneless skinless chicken breasts until they’re fork-tender and infused with the dressing. It’s a great option for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without hovering over the stove, and it’s mild enough to please picky eaters while still interesting for those of us who like a bit of culinary nostalgia.

This creamy Italian chicken is wonderfully versatile, so think of it as a sauce-plus-protein situation. It’s especially good spooned over hot buttered egg noodles or a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes, which soak up that tangy, savory cream sauce. If you prefer something lighter, serve it over steamed rice or a simple bed of sautéed spinach or zucchini. A crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables—like broccoli, green beans, or carrots—adds freshness and balances the richness of the dish. Warm crusty bread or garlic bread on the side is also a smart idea; you’ll want something to swipe through every last bit of sauce.

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 cup Italian dressing (bottled, zesty or regular)
1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving, optional)